Enzhou, Guangdong: Discover the Hidden Gems of Enzhou, Encounter Niche Ancient Charm and Romantic Mountains & Seas

Enzhou, Guangdong: Exploring the Millennia-Old Hometown of Overseas Chinese Nestled Between Mountains and Sea Enzhou, this hidden gem in Guangdong, was anciently known as Enping. Like a pearl dusted by time, it awaits travelers to unveil its mysterious charm. Located at the southwestern tip of the Greater Bay Area, bordering the South China Sea and adjacent to Hong Kong and Macau, its unique geographical position endows it with both mountain-sea poetry and the cultural flair of an overseas Chinese hometown. Stepping into Enzhou feels like traveling back a thousand years. Established in the 25th year of Jian'an during the Eastern Han Dynasty, its long history has left profound cultural imprints. The Enzhou Bell Tower bears the marks of time, its ancient architecture whispering tales of yore; the resilient Jiongcheng Tower stands firm through storms, witnessing Enzhou's rises and falls; while Feng Ru's former residence allows us to commemorate this "Father of Chinese Aviation," feeling his passion and ambition. Wandering through ancient villages and alleys, the cobblestone paths and weathered walls seem to murmur fragments of the past. Enzhou is also a renowned hometown of overseas Chinese, with over 630,000 compatriots in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and abroad, spread across 111 countries and regions. Unique overseas Chinese culture thrives here, where East-meets-West architectural styles abound—European carvings complement Chinese upturned eaves, creating extraordinary beauty. Step into these historic homes, touch the exquisite wood and brick carvings, imagine the lives of their former residents, and feel the deep nostalgia and worldly aspirations of the overseas Chinese community. For nature lovers, Enzhou is paradise. With 53.7% forest coverage, it boasts the Greater Bay Area's largest reservoir—the Jinjiang Reservoir with a capacity of 418 million cubic meters—its clear waters mirroring blue skies, white clouds, and verdant mountains. The 6,666.67-hectare (100,000-acre) Qixingkeng Primeval Forest feels like an isolated fairyland, where lush vegetation blocks the sun, and rare flora and fauna thrive. With luck, you might spot the nationally protected Chinese pangolin or hear the crisp call of the blue-throated bee-eater. Enzhou's hot springs are legendary, earning it titles like "National Geothermal Geological Park" and "Hometown of Chinese Hot Springs." Four natural geothermal sites, mainly in Datian, Liangxi, and Naji towns, feature abundant springs with high flow rates, temperatures, and over 40 beneficial minerals. After exploring, soak in the warm waters to rejuvenate body and mind, washing away all fatigue. Enzhou's cuisine is unmissable. Specialties like rice noodle rolls, baked cakes, rice noodle sheets, and ox skin offer rich local flavors. Particularly, the silky-smooth rice noodle rolls with savory broth and toppings are unforgettable. Sit at a street-side stall to savor these delicacies and experience Enzhou's authentic lifestyle. Traveling alone in Enzhou means escaping tourist crowds for pure scenery and genuine living. Here, you can reflect inwardly, find tranquility, and create unique travel memories. Shaoxing: A Poetic Slow Life in Jiangnan's Ink Wash Painting Shaoxing, this poetic and tender ancient Jiangnan city, unfolds like an ink wash painting, brimming with millennia-old charm. Located in north-central Zhejiang along Hangzhou Bay's southern shore, its unique watertown scenery and profound history make it the poetry and distant dreams of many. Entering Shaoxing is like stepping into history's long river. Inhabited 9,000 years ago, it birthed the brilliant Xiaohuangshan culture. During the Spring and Autumn period, it was Yue Kingdom's capital, witnessing King Goujian's resilience. Strolling its streets, ancient bridges, wells, and houses recount past glories. On Cangqiao Straight Street, cobblestone paths wind past white walls and black tiles, while occasional black-canopied boats ripple the water—a mesmerizing scene. Slow down to savor every corner's story and feel time's gentle traces. Shaoxing birthed numerous luminaries—Lu Xun, Wang Xizhi, He Zhizhang, Qiu Jin, Cai Yuanpei. Lu Xun's hometown immerses you in his literary world. At Hundred-Grass Garden, emerald plots, smooth stone wells, and tall locust trees recall textbook descriptions; in Sanwei Study, sit where Lu Xun studied, absorbing his atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Orchid Pavilion, China's calligraphy holy site, embodies profound culture. Here, Wang Xizhi penned the eternal "Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection"—its elegant script and prose making it a pilgrimage for calligraphy lovers. Admire the pavilion's gardens and immerse in its artistic aura. Shaoxing's natural scenery rivals its culture. East Lake Scenic Area is famed for its peculiar landscapes. Glide in a black-canopied boat between towering cliffs and odd rocks, with clear waters mirroring greenery—a living landscape painting. On Jian Lake, vast blue waves frame picturesque shores. Enjoy serene lake views, taste local delights like Shaoxing rice wine, stinky tofu, and pork with preserved vegetables, treating your palate to a delightful journey. Life in Shaoxing is slow and warm. Mornings in old teahouses with steaming tea and local snacks, watching leisurely chats and chess games, exude relaxation. Evenings in ancient alleys, with soft lights and warm shops, occasional Shaoxing dialect feels like coming home. Traveling alone in Shaoxing is a soulful dialogue. Here, escape noise, bathe in Jiangnan's poetry, and let weary hearts rest in profound peace. Taizhou: Finding Poetry and Distant Dreams Between Mountains and Sea Taizhou, this coastal treasure in Zhejiang, shines like a forgotten pearl with unique charm. Bordered by the East Sea, Wenzhou, Lishui, Jinhua, Shaoxing, and Ningbo, it blends mountain and sea wonders with cultural landscapes. Taizhou's mountains are majestic and distinctive. Shenxianju (Immortals' Abode), legendary for its fairy inhabitants, is renowned for bizarre peaks, waterfalls, and streams. Peculiar peaks—some like swords piercing clouds, others like graceful fairies—feel truly mystical amid misty climbs. Each step brings fresh surprises, and summit views inspire awe at nature's artistry. The sea here is equally enchanting. Dachen Island, steeped in legend, offers pristine beaches, crystal waters, and clear skies. Stroll sandy shores, feel sea breezes, and let waves wash worries away. Bask in sun and surf, explore fishing villages, savor fresh seafood, and embrace islanders' simple life. Taizhou's history runs deep. The Ancient City Cultural Tourism Zone showcases coastal defense heritage. Wandering its flagstone streets, ancient walls, and traditional buildings recount centuries past. Ziyang Ancient Street feels like time travel, lined with craft shops, snack stalls, old teahouses, and barbershops. Taizhou's vibrancy shines at night. Glowing lights and bustling night markets brim with aromatic foods and laughter. Grab a snack, chat with locals, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Traveling solo in Taizhou means freely exploring between mountains and sea, discovering hidden beauties in every corner. Here, forget worries, revel in journey's joy, and find your personal poetry and distant dreams.